Peer Support Worker – Mental Health & Addictions

Reporting to the Manager, Mental Health and Addiction Services the Peer Support Worker following Recovery Principles is responsible for the provision of support, information, consultation, education and community development services to benefit clients accessing substance use and mental health supports offered by the Supportive Outreach Service (SOS).

Qualifications / Skills / Abilities:

Required

• Post-Secondary certificate in Mental Health, Addictions, or relevant Social Science Field
• Experience supporting families and/or people with substance use and mental health issues
• Awareness of mental health and substance use services, and resources within Grey/Bruce County
• Understanding of, and sensitivity to, the rights and needs of people with substance use and mental health issues
• Knowledge of Harm Reduction Principles and Practices
• Knowledge of major mental illnesses and their impact on individuals and families
• Knowledge of psychiatry, DSM V and the Ontario Mental Health Act
• Knowledge and appreciation of Recovery Principles
• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to work effectively with family members and with professionals
• Strong communication skills, including public speaking and writing skills
• Good judgement, problem-solving and decision-making skills
• Ability to work cooperatively in a team setting
• Valid Ontario Class ‘G’ driver’s license, insurance and access to reliable transportation – travel is required
• Recent satisfactory performance and attendance record
• Adherence to Brightshores ‘CARE’ Behaviours (Collaboration, Accountability, Respect, Excellence) and ‘LEAD’ Competencies (Lead by example, Empower, Achieve results, Develop others) and a commitment to a safe workplace free of violence and harassment
• Advocates and supports a culture of patient safety and demonstrates an understanding of how the department service and assigned responsibilities contribute to overall patient safety at Brightshores through patient safety knowledge, skills and attitudes

Preferred

• Formal Peer Support Training
• Wellness Recovery Action Plan (WRAP) Training
• C.P.I. training up to date